ORIGIN

The Other Sloper: 1950 Sarolea 500

Regular subscribers may have noticed that we at Throttle Yard are big fans of the single cylinder motorcycle, especially ones which are notably unusual or exceptionally good looking. This 1950 Sarolea 500 checks all those boxes, and is in great riding condition to boot. Find it here on eBay in San Diego, California with days to bid and an $8k BIN.

Sarolea is Belgium’s oldest motorcycle manufacturer, and was a fairly successful company for a time. Like so many other Belgian manufacturers, it reached its peak prior to the Second World War. Postwar success was limited, and by the early 60s Sarolea had quietly slipped into history.

This Sarolea looks to be a very well made bike, and one that was restored to a high standard. We dig the black paint and red pinstripes, and the overall look is greater than the sum of its parts. Our favorite detail is the aesthetic of the engine, which reminds us of other contemporary British slopers.

The above video exhibits the bike’s capabilities, showing both its mechanical and electrical functionality. The seller doesn’t go into detail about what work has been done to the bike over the years, but it has been owned and maintained for the past four by a former mechanic and shop owner.

Like many other Belgian bikes, the parts hunt will likely be a bit of a challenge. Thankfully, this Sarolea is no basket case. Were we to add it to our stable, we would ride it as is and spend our spare time getting acquainted with the model and sourcing some spares.